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A high number of pertussis cases in Ohio is concerning health officials and prompting a call for
children and adults to get a booster shot to protect against whooping cough.

Recent outbreaks, including in and around Franklin County, have brought the number of cases
to 901 as of last Saturday, according to the Ohio Department of Health. There were 742 cases at
this time last year.

Whooping cough spikes every few years. The worst year in recent memory was in 2010, when Ohio
had 1,858 cases.

The bacterial illness is easily spread through coughing and sneezing and is riskiest for
infants. More than half of those under 1 year old who are infected end up in a hospital. In rare
cases, babies die.

Infants might not show the classic symptom — violent and repetitive coughing followed by a “
whooping” sound.

A series of vaccinations is recommended before a child starts school. State law calls for a
booster for seventh-graders. Health officials also recommend a booster for all adults, especially
those who are around infants, and for women during pregnancy.